WORKING MOTHER MAGAZINE CITES TOM'S OF MAINE FOR WORK/LIFE EXCELLENCE

October 9, 2001

(Kennebunk, Maine): In a year marked by economic downturn and now tragedy, balancing work and home life responsibilities has taken on even greater meaning for working parents. Employees are looking for more than just good benefits and a fair paycheck; they want an environment that is sensitive to the values and needs of working families. In its annual 100 Best Companies list, Working Mother magazine honors companies whose environments and policies recognize and respond to these issues. For the ninth consecutive year, Tom's of Maine has been named to the list.

The country's leading manufacturer of natural care products, such as toothpaste and soap, Tom's of Maine shares a place on the list with companies employing hundreds of thousands. With just 150 employees, Tom's is the smallest company in the 100 Best, yet it carries a hefty corporate philosophy: People and nature have inherent worth and deserve respect.

"Our work/life policies are based on company values, not an economic model. We believe people who work in a fulfilling environment, where they are both valued and respected, are happier, more productive, and loyal," says Tom Chappell, co-founder and president of Tom's of Maine. "In fact, companies who find creative ways of motivating and retaining their employees are better equipped to succeed in challenging economic times."

Working Mother cited Tom's flexible work schedules, generous parental leave, and employee wellness programs in naming the company to its 100 Best list. Working Mother Media President Carol Evans states, "Savvy companies like Tom's of Maine understand that human resources are their most valuable, and that employees need solutions to make juggling work and home easier."

Tom's expansive benefits include some notable additions this year, such as long-term care insurance and a wellness program overseen by a full-time Fitness Leader. The number of employees working flexible schedules has also increased, and alternative ways of conducting business -- such as teleconferencing and working from home -- are more commonplace. The company also offers benefits not found at most companies, regardless of size. Health insurance coverage extends to domestic partners. Fathers receive four weeks paid time off following the birth or adoption of a child. And employees can spend up to 5% of their work time volunteering in their communities.

The company has a hand-on approach to reviewing and revising its work/life policies. Periodic "channeling sessions" provide employees with a forum to discuss everything from working conditions to vacation time. Based on this feedback, senior management may evaluate and implement new benefits. For example, following employees' concern about aging parents and their own potential need for long-term care, Tom's now offers -- and pays for -- a long-term care insurance policy carrying a $2,000/month benefit; employees can also enroll parents, spouse, and children at the group rate, if they wish.

Since its inception in 1970, Tom's of Maine has remained committed to producing safe, effective natural care products without using artificial flavors, dyes, sweeteners, or preservatives. The company has a long history of supporting social and environmental causes. For more information about Tom's of Maine, its natural care products , and its family-friendly policies, contact Kathleen Taggersell at 800-775-2388.

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